In a significant shift within Punjab’s policing hierarchy, Dayama Harish Kumar Omprakash, a distinguished Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has been appointed as the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Intelligence, Punjab. This new posting, announced in early 2025, marks a pivotal chapter in his illustrious career, transitioning him from the high-stakes role of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Gurdaspur to a strategic position at the heart of Punjab’s intelligence operations. Known for his tenacity and tactical brilliance, Dayama’s journey reflects a blend of grit, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to public safety—qualities that make him a standout figure in India’s law enforcement landscape.
Early Life and the Making of a Leader
While details of Dayama’s early years remain private—a hallmark of many IPS officers who let their work speak louder than their personal stories—it’s safe to assume he was shaped by a deep-rooted sense of duty and discipline. Born into a family that likely valued education and service, Dayama’s formative years set the stage for a career defined by purpose. His entry into the IPS, a highly competitive and prestigious cadre, speaks volumes about his intellectual prowess and physical resilience, traits honed through rigorous training and an unrelenting drive to serve.
Joining the 2014 batch of the IPS, Dayama emerged as a promising officer in Punjab, a state where policing demands both courage and ingenuity due to its unique socio-political and geographical challenges. His early assignments laid the groundwork for a career that would see him rise swiftly through the ranks, earning respect for his ability to handle complex situations with a steady hand.
A Proven Track Record in Gurdaspur
Before his elevation to AIG Intelligence, Dayama served as the SSP of Gurdaspur, a border district synonymous with security challenges. Appointed to this role prior to the reshuffle in February 2025, he stepped into a position that tested his mettle daily. Gurdaspur’s proximity to the Indo-Pak border made it a hotspot for cross-border smuggling, drone incursions, and potential terrorist threats—issues that required not just administrative oversight but a proactive, boots-on-the-ground approach.
During his tenure, Dayama tackled these threats with a blend of strategic planning and community engagement. The rise of drone-assisted drug and weapon smuggling had become a pressing concern, with areas like Dera Baba Nanak and Dina Nagar often in the spotlight. Dayama worked tirelessly to coordinate with the Border Security Force (BSF) and local police units, implementing tighter surveillance and rapid-response mechanisms. His efforts disrupted several smuggling operations, sending a clear message to criminal networks that Gurdaspur was no longer an easy target.
Beyond enforcement, Dayama understood the power of community trust. He revitalized Village Defence Committees (VDCs), empowering local residents to act as sentinels against border crimes. This grassroots initiative not only bolstered intelligence-gathering but also bridged the gap between the police and the people, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. His tenure in Gurdaspur was marked by a decline in border incidents and a rise in public confidence—a testament to his dynamic leadership.
Transition to Intelligence: A New Frontier
Dayama’s appointment as AIG Intelligence, Punjab, in February 2025, reflects the state government’s trust in his ability to handle one of the most sensitive and critical wings of the Punjab Police. Replacing his role as Gurdaspur SSP—where he was succeeded by Aditya—this new posting thrusts him into the nerve center of Punjab’s security apparatus. The intelligence wing is tasked with preempting threats, gathering actionable insights, and ensuring the state stays ahead of criminal and extremist elements—a role that demands both analytical sharpness and operational finesse.
This transition is no small leap. As AIG Intelligence, Dayama will oversee a broad spectrum of responsibilities, from countering terrorism and organized crime to monitoring internal unrest and border-related espionage. Based in Mohali, he’ll work alongside other seasoned officers like Charanjit Singh, who also joined the intelligence wing in the same reshuffle. Together, they form a formidable team tasked with safeguarding Punjab in an era of evolving threats.
Mastering the Art of Intelligence
Dayama’s experience in Gurdaspur has uniquely prepared him for this role. His firsthand knowledge of border dynamics—gained through years of managing real-time crises—gives him an edge in deciphering the patterns of cross-border activities. Whether it’s tracking the influx of narcotics or identifying sleeper cells, his insights will likely shape Punjab’s intelligence strategies moving forward.
Moreover, Dayama brings a collaborative spirit to the table. His success in Gurdaspur hinged on partnerships with the BSF, local communities, and other agencies—a skillset he’ll now scale up to liaise with national bodies like the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). His ability to synthesize ground-level inputs with high-level intelligence could redefine how Punjab tackles its security challenges, making prevention as potent as reaction.
A Leader with Vision and Valor
What makes Dayama stand out is not just his operational success but his leadership philosophy. He’s the kind of officer who leads by example—decisive yet approachable, strategic yet grounded. In Gurdaspur, he was known for being out in the field, rallying his team during late-night operations or community meetings. This hands-on style is expected to carry over into his intelligence role, where he’ll likely push for a proactive, data-driven approach to threat management.
Dayama’s vision extends beyond immediate wins. He understands that intelligence isn’t just about reacting to crises—it’s about anticipating them. By strengthening Punjab’s intelligence network, he aims to create a framework that not only addresses today’s threats but also prepares the state for tomorrow’s uncertainties. From upgrading technological capabilities to training officers in modern tradecraft, his influence could leave a lasting imprint on the wing.
Challenges Ahead: Navigating a Complex Landscape
The road ahead as AIG Intelligence is fraught with challenges. Punjab’s intelligence wing has faced scrutiny in the past for lapses, such as the Ajnala incident in 2023, where a lack of foresight allowed tensions to escalate. Dayama steps into a role where the stakes are sky-high—any misstep could have statewide, even national, repercussions. The rise of drone technology, the persistence of drug cartels, and the specter of radicalization are just a few of the issues on his radar.
Yet, if his past is any indicator, Dayama is more than equipped to rise to the occasion. His ability to adapt—whether to the rugged terrain of Gurdaspur or the nuanced demands of intelligence work—sets him apart. He’ll need to balance the urgency of real-time threats with the patience required to build a robust intelligence ecosystem, all while maintaining the trust of his team and the public.
A Legacy in the Making
Dayama Harish Kumar Omprakash’s journey from a 2014-batch IPS officer to AIG Intelligence, Punjab, is a story of resilience, growth, and impact. His time in Gurdaspur showcased his ability to lead under pressure, while his new role offers a platform to shape Punjab’s security at a macro level. At a time when the state faces multifaceted challenges, Dayama’s appointment signals hope—a promise of smarter, stronger policing.
As he embarks on this chapter, Dayama carries with him the lessons of the border, the wisdom of experience, and the drive to make a difference. Punjab’s intelligence wing, under his stewardship, could become a benchmark for excellence, blending traditional policing with cutting-edge strategies. For Dayama, this isn’t just a posting—it’s a mission to protect, predict, and prevail.